My Story
I grew up in South Africa, where agriculture is closely tied to both livelihood and identity, and that early exposure shaped my interest in animal science. Seeing the challenges producers face, from animal health to feed efficiency, led me to pursue research in ruminant nutrition. My work now focuses on how health stressors like bovine respiratory disease influence intake, energy metabolism, and long-term performance in cattle. I was drawn to Warren Wilson College because of its emphasis on hands-on learning and applied research, which mirrors the practical, problem-solving approach I value. I’ve stayed because it allows me to connect research to real-world systems, building skills I hope to bring back to support and improve livestock production in South Africa.
Bianca BirkenstockI love teaching at Warren Wilson College because students are deeply engaged and unafraid to ask questions. Their curiosity and hands-on mindset push discussions beyond theory, making learning collaborative, applied, and genuinely meaningful every day.
Education
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Animal Science — Alcorn State University
- Master of Science (M.S.), Animal Science (Ruminant Nutrition) — New Mexico State University
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Animal Science (Ruminant Nutrition) — New Mexico State University
Research Interests
- Methane mitigation strategies in ruminants through nutrition and feed additives
- Rumen fermentation dynamics and gas production (methane, COâ‚‚) in relation to efficiency
- Use of agricultural byproducts (e.g., pecan shells) to reduce methane emissions and improve sustainability
Courses Taught
- ENS 2160 — Introduction to Animal Science
- BIO 3550 — Animal Nutrition
- CHM 1160 — General Chemistry I with Lab
Crews and Other Activities
- Member of professional organizations in animal science (American Society of Animal Science)